CFB Alumni, JoAnna Schmidt, Talks Life Before and After PBT

After graduating from the Central Florida Ballet Academy in 2010, JoAnna Schmidt immediately joined the Pittsburgh Ballet Theater Graduate Program on full scholarship. During her two years at PBT, JoAnna trained under Janet Popeleski, Majorie Grundvig, and Dennis Marshall and was even featured in "The Nutcracker" as a Snowflake, Flower, and Shepherdess.

Recently JoAnna had one of the most exciting experiences of her life when she was offered a contract for the 2012-13 season with Pittsburgh Ballet Theater. Join us as we speak with Joanna as she revisits her training days at Central Florida Ballet Academy and discusses her new life at Pittsburgh Ballet Theater....

JoAnna Schmidt in class at the Central Florida Ballet Academy. 

Photo By Virginia Trudeau & Deedee Sherman

At what age did you start training at the Central Florida Ballet Academy (CFBA)?
I started taking classes at Central Florida Ballet when I was seven years old.

What are some of your most memorable highlights during your years training at CFBA?
I could write a novel about memorable moments I've had at CFB! I will never forget when Mr. Vasile promised the Level 2 class that if we all got our splits down to the floor, he would demonstrate his own split for us. I remember when he finally did, we all ran over to him and started jumping on him to push him down further. Of course, I could also never forget the first time Mr. Vladimir called me Joni. The first time was an accident, but afterward it became my permanent nickname.

What featured roles did you enjoy dancing the most with the CFB professional company? Getting to dance the role of Maria was my dream since the first year I came to CFB, and I was lucky enough to do it twice! I also loved being a Wili in Giselle.

How was the transition to Pittsburgh? Was it tough to leave your family and friends? How do you keep in contact with them? It was definitely enlightening; I had a lot of growing up to do when I first came to Pittsburgh (still do, of course). It was tough, but I've met so many marvelous people here. Some of my friends and I exchange letters, but mostly I stay in touch over the phone.

What is a typical day in the PBT Graduate Program like?
The days vary a lot. In the morning, we either start at 8 or 9:30 with ballet, modern, or pilates. Then, for the rest of the day, we go back and forth between regular dance classes (partnering, variation, etc) and rehearsals for upcoming performances. The days typically ends somewhere between 3 and 6pm.

What did you learn from CFBA that has helped you at PBT?
One thing I am so thankful I learned at CFB is the ability to pick up choreography quickly. That is so vital, especially when you're competing against other students to get cast in company productions. The director is going to pick the people who learn fast. I miss reversing petite allegro combinations at CFB! Sometimes here in Pittsburgh, I'll reverse the combination in my head, just to make sure I still can!

What surprised you most about training at PBT?
I think the biggest shock was getting used to wearing pointe shoes in ballet class. At first I couldn't stand it, but now I actually prefer wearing pointe shoes!

You took a six month break from dance at age 17 (something many dancers could never start back from). What influenced you to keep dancing? 
The support from my parents was a major factor. Plus, everyone at CFB made me feel so welcome, as if I'd never left. That made it so much easier to come back. I'm sometimes tempted to be ashamed of that part of my life. For me personally, though, the break was necessary. It made realize that ballet is one of the most profound sources of joy I have in my life. It made me realize that I never want to stop dancing now.

What is your dream role to dance at PBT? 
Honestly? PBT has these little bumblebees in The Nutcracker. They just run around with jazz hands in the beginning of the Waltz of the Flowers. It looks like so much fun, but that is one dream role that will probably never come true for me.

Overall, what do you think about your accomplishment of receiving a contract with PBT?  It is an overwhelming honor to have received this contract. I am so thankful for the years I spent at CFB! I believe I wouldn't be where I am now if I had trained elsewhere.


Thank you for the interview JoAnna! Everyone at CFB gives you a big Congratulations on your accomplishment and we wish you all the best in your blossoming career!


For more information on the Central Florida Ballet, visit http://www.CentralFloridaBallet.com or Call 407.849.9948.

SNEAK PREVIEW of "An Evening of Dance"

Enjoy an exclusive SNEAK PREVIEW of 'Tea Time', an excerpt that will be performed at the Central Florida Ballet's upcoming performance "An Evening of Dance". "Tea Time" pokes fun at formal tea parties and the proper etiquette of guests during the 1900's. For tickets, call 407.849.9948 or visit http://www.CentralFloridaBallet.com.

 

"Tea Time" is choreographed Viktor Plotnikov. Read our recent blog post on his creation here.

Evening of Dance Combines Classical Tradition with Gala Flair

Pictured: “Tea Time” performed by the 
Central Florida Ballet - Studio Company

Photo By: Virginia Trudeau & Deedee Sherman

The Central Florida Ballet has announced its new two-part Spring performance, “An Evening of Dance”, which offers a great balance for the entire family. The first act will offer gala flair with a variety of short numbers; each ranging from classical to comedy to modern & contemporary styles. Such pieces will include “Tea Time” which pokes fun at formal tea parties and the proper etiquette of guests in the 1900’s as well as traditional classical excerpts of the delightfully fun “Tarantella” and romantic style “La Vivandiere”.

In contrast, the second act will showcase one traditional story ballet, “Act III: The Enchanted Garden” from Le Corsaire a full-length story ballet. Set in King Pasha's palace, beautiful women dance and play tricks on the king. The ballet transitions into a dream sequence where "Medora, Gulnare, and the women of the harem join together to dance a fantastical Grand Ballabile in which they celebrate beauty, grace, and harmony in a garden filled with flowers and magic fountains". Diane Withee, Studio Company Rehearsal Master says, “We wanted to shake up the traditional performance format of either seeing a story ballet or numbers in a gala. We definitely achieved that and know our audience will benefit from the diversity of this evening’s repertoire”.

Tickets are limited for “An Evening of Dance”, a one-night only performance held at the Trinity Preparatory School on Saturday, March 24 at 7pm. General Admission is $10 (Children 10 & Under) and/or $25 (Adults 11 & Up) available by calling 407.849.9948.

A Mini Silent Auction will be held before the performance where you can bid on items from Euro Day Spa, Avon, Yoga lessons, and more. All proceeds will benefit the Central Florida Ballet, a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization.

For more information, visit http://www.CentralFloridaBallet.com or call 407.849.9948.

CFB March eNews: Child-Friendly Performance, Alumni Feature, & More

Are you subscribed to the Central Florida Ballet's monthly e-newsletter? If not, check out the March issue below. This month's exciting issue includes:

• A superb review of CFB Alumni, Sasha De Sola, who recently performed her first principal role with the San Francisco Ballet, one of the top ballet companies in the world.
• Fun facts on the Central Florida Ballet's upcoming Spring performance. Hint: Tea. Etiquette. Bite Size Sandwiches. Scones.
• Announcement of summer programs at the Central Florida Ballet Academy - with programs for all levels!

Link to the CFB Monthly Newsletter:

  http://hosted-p0.vresp.com/1112039/2bab329275/ARCHIVE

Pictured: CFB Academy Student- Ashton Gordon

To subscribe to the Central Florida Ballet's Monthly eNewsletter, email kklopfenstein@centralfloridaballet.com with "Subscribe to eNews" in the subject line.

Beginner Ballet Causes Nerves, Excitement, & Thrill

Every Monday, adult students walk through the doors of Central Florida Ballet's Studios fifteen minutes before the class begins. Some are regulars and others are trying something brand new. Yes, we are talking about the dare devils who decide they want to try a ballet class. From those who took ballet when they were young - to - those who never danced before they are all thinking the same things.... 1) I don't want to embarrass myself. 2) What if there are advanced dancers in the class? 3) Will I be able to follow along? 4) Will I want to come back?

Well we are here to tell you the answers...and give you the real insider's scoop in what actually happens at Beginner Ballet at the Central Florida Ballet.

Vasile Petrutiu teaches a ballet class at the Central Florida Ballet Academy. 

Photo By: Morgan H. Lee

 I don't want to embarrass myself. Most often everyone in the Beginner Ballet class is just that - Beginner! Everyone is in the same boat and learning just like you. They are unsure of where to put their arms or how to do a "tendu" or "jete". So no worries. You won't embarrass yourself. If anything you will proud of what you learn and your accomplishments after attending several classes. You will also make new friends and help each other during the class too.

What if there are advanced dancers in the class? Rarely this happens. But if there are Advanced dancers trust us - they are so focused on their own technique they will not notice anything else. Plus most often they really like to help out new students and enjoy teaching to others. They are just normal people and understand the difficulty of starting from scratch.

Will I be able to follow along? Its all a learning process. The Beginner Ballet class goes slowly to teach each of the students the basics of ballet. From the position of your arms to your feet the instructor covers it all. So, if you don't remember a step its completely normal and all a part of the learning process! It would actually be just unusual if you picked up everything right away.

Will I want to come back? Most often the answer is yes, but it really depends on you. Many students enjoy trying something new and shaking up their regular routine. Others enjoy how good you feel after the class - hello endorphins. Some enjoy the challenge of learning. Or many just enjoy revisiting their dance memories from the past and simply enjoy the arts.

Is Beginner Ballet looking less intimidating now? We certainly hope so because it truly is a great way to get in shape and actually have FUN exercising! If you are up to the challenge try next week's class held from Noon-1pm every Monday at Central Florida Ballet. No pre-registration required. Simply show up and its $10 a class! Or $8 with valid student I.D. or employees of Disney, Universal, or SeaWorld.

Central Florida Ballet's Official Website: http://www.CentralFloridaBallet.com or Call 407.849.9948

Family-Friendly Sunday Afternoon

Want to spend a great Sunday afternoon with your family, but not sure what to do? Take a seat at the Central Florida Ballet's next FREE performance of "The Enchanted Garden". 

 Photo By: Virginia Trudeau & Deedee Sherman

This show features Act III and additional excerpts from Le Corsaire (a full-length ballet). The performance begins with beautiful dancing in the King Pasha's palace upon which King Pasha retires for a nap. The ballet transitions into a dream sequence of "The Enchanted Garden" where "Medora, Gulnare, and the woman of the harem join together to dance a fantastical Grand Ballabile in which they celebrate beauty, grace, and harmony in a garden filled with flowers and magic fountains". After their great celebration, the King awakens and... well you will just have to see the show for yourself to find out the conclusion!

Mark your Calendar, iPhone, Blackberry, etc for Sunday, February 19 at 2:00pm held at the Trinity Preparatory School in Winter Park. Simply arrive early to ensure seating (tickets and reservations are not issued). This year's performance is sponsored by ArtsFest of United Arts of Central Florida. For complete event information click here.  

About Central Florida Ballet: The Central Florida Ballet is a 501 (c) Non-Profit Organization. Central Florida Ballet's mission is to entertain, educate, and inspire through the universal art form of dance. With a diverse repertoire of dance productions and programs from classical to contemporary and beyond, each attendee is to be culturally enriched while developing an appreciation for the arts.

Your support keeps us moving! For information, on how to make a tax-deductible donation to support a performance, educational program, or dancer.. please call the Central Florida Ballet at 407.849.9942 or visit http://www.CentralFloridaBallet.com

Top 5 Dances to Watch

So many of us dance enthusiasts watch an incredible amount of videos on YouTube. We have seen all the varieties out there...from the fun, clever, oddly unique or the always popular "oh my gosh they are incredible" videos. So we gathered some of our favorites just for you...ENJOY!

"Boogie Shoes"

We love this dance because its just plain fun and urges you to get up and dance; that is if you haven't already started. The dance starts near the 0:45 minute mark.

"Yanis Pikieris - Moscow Gold Medal"

Yes, this video definitely brings you back many years or actually decades. All we can say however is the dancing is purely magical! Don't miss the second half of the video which showcases Pikieris's stunning Don Quixote variation and coda - talk about endless attitude turns!

"Diana Vishneva in Firebird Pas de Deux"

This video caught our eye for several reasons. Number One - "Firebird" is a ballet not performed in Orlando very often or actually even a time we can remember.  Number Two: Vishneva is a true star of the ballet world; from her artistry to her impeccable technique she simply captures your attention for this six minute pas de deux!

 "Good Morning, Good Morning"

We picked this video because its a timeless classic and who knew you could stand on furniture in that time or that there are so many ways to use coats...watch the video to see what we are talking about! Don't miss the ballet "bar" at the 2:40 minute mark.

"Wedding Entrance"

We picked this video because it proves dance is for anyone and that you never know what can happen when the music begins...enjoy!

We hope you enjoyed these! Remember there is dance all around you - get involved in the movement or as we say at the Central Florida Ballet: "Move. Be Moved. Be More"! For information on dance classes and upcoming performances visit http://www.CentralFloridaBallet.com or call 407.849.9942.

Before you leave...do you have another video you want to share with us? Tell us in a comment below (you don't have to be a registered user to comment so please share with us). We can't wait to see!